1 kings 3:5 - In Gibeon, Yahweh appeared to Solomon in a dream by night; and God said, “Ask for what I should give you.”

Generated Verse: 1 kings 3:5

What does "1 kings 3:5" mean?


This verse, 1 Kings 3:5, is a pivotal moment in Solomon's story and a cornerstone for understanding his reign. Let's break down the meaning:

"In Gibeon, Yahweh appeared to Solomon in a dream by night..."

Gibeon: This was a significant location because it housed the "tabernacle of the tent of meeting of God" (2 Chronicles 1:3), the original place of worship set up by Moses. While the Ark of the Covenant was in Jerusalem, Gibeon was considered the primary place for public worship at this time.
Yahweh: This is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing a covenant relationship with Israel.
Appeared in a dream by night: Divine communication through dreams was a common motif in the Bible. It suggests a personal and direct encounter with God. This method was often used for key figures, indicating the importance of the message. The fact that it's a dream suggests that Solomon wasn't actively seeking God but was chosen by God for this interaction. It emphasizes divine initiative.

"...and God said, “Ask for what I should give you.”"

"Ask for what I should give you": This is a remarkable and generous offer from God. It presents Solomon with an unprecedented opportunity to request anything he desires. It highlights God's willingness to bless Solomon and work through him.

Overall Meaning:

The verse establishes the following:

Divine Favor: God singled out Solomon for a special encounter.
Solomon's Opportunity: He was given the unique chance to directly request a gift from God.
Significance of the Request: The verse sets the stage for Solomon's wise choice, which will define his reign and demonstrate God's wisdom working through him.
Initiation of Solomon's Reign: The verse can be regarded as the starting point of Solomon’s official reign. God giving the permission to Solomon to ask for a gift from him is an affirmation that God agrees with Solomon’s position as king.

Important Context:

Solomon was relatively new to the throne. He inherited a powerful and complex kingdom from his father, David.
The request that follows (Solomon asking for wisdom and understanding) demonstrates his humility and prioritizing the needs of his people over personal gain.

In short, 1 Kings 3:5 is a crucial verse because it shows God's favor towards Solomon, his willingness to grant Solomon's request, and the importance of Solomon's subsequent choice in shaping his reign and the future of Israel.

What categories does "1 kings 3:5" have?